Community spirit has rescued the Ramsey Post Office branch from closure.

A consortium of existing staff and local residents will run Post Office services from the existing premises in the old courthouse building, subject to final agreement.

The main branch in Regent Street in Douglas will close, with a sub-post office service being offered from the nearby Spar shop in Strand Street.

Originally, the aim had been to close both main branches to achieve savings but this led to an outcry in Ramsey and a protest march against the move.

In a statement, the Post Office says the transfer of operations of both branches will save ?360,000 in operational costs. Detailed discussions will now take place to finalise contractual arrangements and transitional plans. Nine of the 19 affected staff have conditionally accepted redeployment within the Post Office and discussions with trade unions and staff are continuing.

MTTV interview with Post Office chairman Graham Cregreen

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